East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture. It features distinct flat-sawn cathedral patterns with darker 'ink' lines or growth ring patterns that are characteristic of true rosewoods.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep purple-brown with dark brown or black streaks. The color tends to darken and become more uniform with age. It possesses a moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and insect attack, though rarely used for exterior applications due to high value.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, high-end cabinetry, musical instruments (specifically guitar backs, sides, and fingerboards), veneers, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$40.00 - $60.00 per board foot (pricing varies widely based on width and figure)
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a finished furniture piece with some surface wear and oxidation, suggesting an age of 20-50 years.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II; classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to past exploitation.
Workability
Generally difficult to work due to high density and interlocked grain which can cause tearout. It has a high oil content that can make gluing challenging; blades and cutters dull quickly.
Notable Features
Distinctive rose-like scent when being worked. Known for excellent acoustic properties and high natural oil content. Some individuals may experience respiratory irritation from the dust.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to lacquer and high-gloss polishes. Due to natural oils, a sealer coat of dewaxed shellac is recommended before applying polyurethane to ensure adhesion.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep purplish-brown hue combined with the specific dark grain 'ink' lines and cathedral figure are diagnostic features of Dalbergia latifolia used in high-quality furniture.